“I think my style is casual, colorful, and imaginative. I like my photos to reflect some sort of poetic vibe, so I try to capture and present the subjects in a way that will translate that to anyone who may look at them.” — Emily Whitmore / Image: Emily Whitmore

This Local Breathes Life Into Abandoned Places Through Her Photography

There is beauty in everything. Even in the most derelict and barren space, there is beauty. Emily Whitmore carries that mantra throughout her everyday life.

She's a wanderer.She's a seeker.She's a photographer.

"Photographs are fantastic souvenirs." — Emily Whitmore

'Tis true. They are. And that's her goal: to hold time still, even if it's just for a moment. Whitmore first became interested in photography because of her love for a city she's called home her entire life. The more she spent learning about the history of Cincinnati, the more enchanted she became. Each place, each tidbit created a need for her to capture the experience in an image.

We reached out to Whitmore to learn more about her creative process. Here's what she had to say.

CR: What’s your camera of choice?

Whitmore: I’m a simple girl and a sucker for convenience, so while I have a nice DLSR with a great lens (and occasionally use it), my camera of choice is my iPhone 6S Plus.

CR: How would you describe your photographic style?

Whitmore: I think my style is casual, colorful, and imaginative. I like my photos to reflect some sort of poetic vibe, so I try to capture and present the subjects in a way that'll translate that to anyone who may look at them.

CR: What’s at the top of your photography bucket list?

Whitmore: Detroit — with all its tragic romance — is at the top of my photography bucket list.

CR: Name the one building in Cincinnati that you could never get tired of photographing

Whitmore: The Dennison Hotel has been my favorite subject for years.

CR: Any advice for aspiring photographers?

Whitmore: This is a tricky question because I still view myself as "aspiring" when it comes to photography. But here’s the best advice I’ve received: “Do what feels true to you. Evolve, grow, learn, be adventurous, and take risks. Present your own vision and allow yourself to be deeply inspired by what you love.”

CR: Fill in the blank: The best thing about Cincinnati is _______.

Whitmore: The best thing about Cincinnati is that it isn't perfect and it's full of possibility. There is beauty everywhere you look in this city — from the grittier, rough alleys to the immaculate, colorful streets. The variety of architecture is endlessly fascinating and there are so many treasures tucked away just waiting to be found and appreciated.

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